Mrs. Mass.: A day at the beach

I think it’s safe to say that all of Lawrence is familiar with the Sandbar (and the most delightful “Shark Attack” you’ll ever encounter in your life). But have you experienced the Sandbar Sub Shop? The downtown Lawrence location opened just weeks ago and it’s easy to tell this tropical-themed sub shop is going to do wonders for downtown Lawrence.

Sandbar Subs currently has four locations: One in Ottawa, 1548 E. 23rd St. in Lawrence, 1415 W. Sixth St. in Lawrence, and the newest location in downtown Lawrence at 745 New Hampshire St.

Specializing in quality meats and cheeses (I’ve been told “processed food” is not in their vocabulary), this sub shop takes the average deli experience to the next level. Complete with digital menus, interactive kiosks and a jukebox (I mean, it does say Sandbar in the title — music is a must here), this place is prepared!

Keep in mind: this place isn’t just a sub shop. Do you need to pick up gum before you hit the bars? Or maybe you have a little headache but don’t know where to pick up medicine downtown? Sandbar Subs has you covered. It has a decent selection of basic convenience store items, like the gum and headache medicine, and more that will save you from traveling too far. I find this so valuable because downtown lacks a mini-mart.

What could make this better? Like if they were open 24 hours? Hey, you’ve got it! While Sandbar Subs is currently open until 10 p.m., it claims it will be open around the clock in less than one month. Did I say this sub shop is going to do wonders for downtown? ... This sub shop is going to do wonders for downtown.

As for the subs, they’re awesomely satisfying. I had The Cyclone (in wrap form with grilled chicken, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato and Patty’s Killer Dip), and the Mister had the Pirate Steak (toasted with roast beef, BBQ sauce, Swiss and American cheeses, onions and green peppers). It’s easy to tell they use quality meats here; the Mister even made a point to mention that the roast beef is really good. I was also impressed that for just $2 you can make your order a combo with chips and a 32-ounce drink (whoa). This made our tasty meals only $15.20 (together).

If you love the Sandbar, you’ll love Sandbar Subs just as much. I’m so happy to have this sub shop downtown and look forward to its updates and growth.

— Jessica Pauly, aka Mrs. Mass., gives her thoughts on shopping, urban living and what’s new in Lawrence in CheckOut weekly and on her blog, mrsmass.com.